A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to hear Kenneth Schroy, former New York Jets football star, speak about the Marty Lyons Foundation at my church. The foundation provides special wishes to children diagnosed with a terminal or chronic life-threatening illness. Ken Schroy is first vice president of the organization and volunteers his time to the foundation, along with many other people around the country.

Founded in 1982 by Marty Lyons, the brilliant New York Jets defensive lineman, the foundation now operates in several states and only has one mission -- helping provide special attention to children who are severely ill. Providing special trips, tickets to special games, and visits by star athletes, the foundation does make a difference for the child and also for those volunteering their time. Supporting this point, Ken Schroy said, "In all my years as a professional athlete, nothing compares to the feeling I get when I make a difference in the life of a child."

If you know of a child who could benefit from this special wish program, there are simple steps which can be taken to have the wish considered. It requires two forms. The child's parents or legal guardians have to file a consent application. In addition, the attending physician has to provide a medical diagnosis. After very careful examination of every request, a decision is made. For those requests which are approved, the parents or guardians then have to sign a release, and the child's doctor must certify to the foundation that the child is able to have the wish fulfilled. If you know a child whose wish you would like to see granted, by the foundation, you can call The Marty Lyons foundation at 1-800-232-7887 for more information.

The foundation cannot operate to the fullest without volunteers and broad community support. It goes without saying that any financial gifts are always welcome. In addition, the foundation can always make use of airline, theater and amusement tickets. Hotel accommodations and the use of recreational facilities are also extremely important to the work of the foundation. Individuals who want to volunteer time are also needed. Again, just call 1-800-232-7887 to offer your support. It will be most welcome and can truly help make a difference in the life of a child who is terminally ill or is suffering with a chronic life-threatening illness.

Bobby Nystrom, New York Islanders hockey great and an important supporter, sums up the work of the foundation best when he recently said, "Winners come in all shapes and sizes. The Marty Lyons Foundation makes all their children feel like winners."